Undermount vs Farmhouse Sink: Sizes We Install and What Fits
Undermount vs farmhouse sink: an undermount sink mounts under the countertop, so crumbs wipe straight in and the stone edge around it is polished; a farmhouse sink has an exposed front panel and needs a special sink-base cabinet. Undermount works with almost any existing cabinet, which makes it the easier upgrade. Farmhouse makes a statement but usually requires cabinet changes and careful templating.
Summary
- Undermount: clean edge, easy wiping, fits most existing cabinets.
- Farmhouse: exposed apron front, needs a matching sink base.
- Both need the sink on site before template day.
- We set the sink; your plumber connects it.
Undermount vs Farmhouse, Side by Side
| Undermount | Farmhouse (apron front) | |
|---|---|---|
| Look | Clean, modern | Statement, farmhouse or traditional |
| Cleaning | Wipe crumbs straight in | Front panel can catch drips |
| Cabinet | Works with most sink bases | Needs a farmhouse sink base |
| Countertop cut | Polished opening | Stone wraps three sides of the sink |
| Upgrade from drop-in | Easy | Often needs cabinet work |
Stainless Sink Sizes Listed by Cornerstone
The stainless steel 16-gauge sink sizes listed by Cornerstone include small radius 30/18, zero radius 32/19, single bowls 23/17 and 30/18, a 50/50 double at 32/18 and a farmhouse 60/40. Ask our team which models are in stock today.
Whatever sink you choose, it must be on site before template day so the cutout matches it exactly.
What Each Sink Needs From the Cabinet
Undermount
A standard sink base wide enough for the bowl. Usually no change if you are keeping your cabinets; see our guide on replace countertops without replacing cabinets.
Farmhouse
A sink base built for an apron front, with the front cut down and support for the sink's weight. Plan it in the cabinet design.
Sinks in an Island
An undermount sink in an island keeps the top clean and works well with waterfall ends; see is a waterfall countertop worth it. See our kitchen countertops, or browse all kitchen and bath design ideas.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I switch from a drop-in to an undermount sink?
Yes, when you replace the countertop. Your plumber may need to adjust the drain.
Does a farmhouse sink need a special cabinet?
Yes, a sink base designed for an apron-front sink.
Do you install the sink?
We set the sink into the countertop; your plumber connects water and drain.
Do you sell sinks?
Yes. We sell kitchen and bathroom sinks, and you can see sink samples in our showroom. We set the sink in the countertop; your plumber connects it.
Is an undermount sink harder to keep clean?
No, it is easier: there is no rim to collect crumbs.
